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Ria

Girl name · 258 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Ria: 258 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 13 births in 1982.

Ria is most familiar as a short form of Maria, which traces back through Latin and Greek to the Hebrew Miryam, a name of debated meaning—likely “bitter” or “beloved,” but also “wished-for child.” In Spanish and Italian, ría means “river” or “estuary,” giving the name a gentle, flowing undertone. Famous bearers include Filipino actress Ria Atayde and New Zealand singer Ria Hall, while Dutch swimmer Ria van der Stege won Olympic medals in the 1970s. Though no major places bear the name directly, the geographic term Ría appears in coastal features like the Ría de Vigo in Spain. A modern, airy choice, Ria shares roots with Riya and Rhea, and has gained quiet popularity in Scotland—often chosen for its sweet, international simplicity.